A scaled-up redevelopment of the Gold Coast Hockey Centre is one step closer with the release of final design images for the $14.5 Million facility at Keith Hunt Park, Labrador.

Commonwealth Games Minister Stirling Hinchliffe unveiled the new plans for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games venue which reveal an improved design for the facility, currently home to the Gold Coast Hockey Association and Labrador Hockey Club.

Minister Hinchliffe said project redevelopment includes the upgrade of two synthetic pitches to international standard, an upgraded turf pitch and permanent seating for 200 spectators, with capacity for 5,000 spectators at Games time.

“The original Games Bid only included upgrade works to the hockey pitches, but these plans now include an upgrade and expansion that will see the clubhouse more than double in size.” Minister Hinchliffe said.

“This improved design will benefit the sport of hockey on the Gold Coast and help attract major competitions and international training camps in future.”

“In addition to the facilities at Labrador, a further $2.25 Million has been allocated to build an additional synthetic hockey pitch at the Sports Super Centre at Runaway Bay, to be used as a training pitch during the Games.” Minister Hinchliffe said.

“This redevelopment is an important investment and will deliver a tremendous facility and legacy for Gold Coast hockey and the community.”

“The local community will also be able to enjoy the new facility more than a year out from the Games.” Minister Hinchliffe said.

Designed by MODE on the Gold Coast, the redevelopment will include an expansion of existing facilities to incorporate

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said this investment in hockey infrastructure would be another enduring legacy of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

“We will see enormous benefits in hosting national and international tournaments well into the future.” Cr. Tate said.

“This is an incredible chance to provide young and aspiring hockey players with the opportunity to train and build their skills locally in a world-class facility.”

Federal Minister for Sport Sussan Ley said the Federal Government’s $156 Million commitment to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games would provide a lasting legacy not only for South-East Queensland but for the nation as a whole.

“The local community are not only benefiting from this funding with a boost to construction activity but from the benefits of having athletes and visitors experiencing this world-class facility.” Minister Ley said.

“The Commonwealth Games will continue to cement Australia’s reputation as a world-class host of major international sporting events following this year’s successful Netball World Cup, Cricket World Cup and Asian Cup all hosted on home soil.”

Building works are scheduled to commence in early 2016 for completion by early 2017 while upgrades to the hockey pitches will be carried out in between the 2016/17 hockey season to minimise disruption to the sport on the Gold Coast.